Linda Rae Cords, age 75, passed away peacefully with her family at her side on January 13, 2024, at The Deerfield in New Richmond.

Linda was born on May 17, 1948, to her parents, Raymond and Lois (Carlson) Johnson.

She attended grade school in Chetek and graduated from Amery High School in 1966. She was a member of the Apple River 4-H and an FHA officer.

Linda was baptized, confirmed, and married at Balsam Lutheran Church. On June 2, 1966, Linda married the love of her life, Gerald (Jerry) Cords. Together, they started their family farm on 200 acres by Star Prairie to make it a home. There, they raised two children, Jackie and Jeremy, and a nephew, Dean Weber. She was an active member of Bethany Lutheran Church for many years. Her strong faith was an important part of her life.

Linda was involved in many volunteer opportunities. She enjoyed being a 4-H leader of Wagon Landing 4-H, a Sunday school teacher, a member of the Homemaker’s Club, assisted with the Alzheimer’s Association and American Cancer Society walks, and held offices with the Women of the ELCA. She traveled to many conventions around the United States to promote her church organization’s faith initiatives.

After her children were in school, Linda decided to work outside the home. She worked at Star Prairie Post Office for many years, as a store manager at Circle C, and as a job coach with Polk County’s Development Disabilities Program. She completed her working years with Brotoloc Group Homes before she retired to spend time with her grandkids.

After retirement, Linda and Jerry had more time to travel with friends and family. Her favorite memories are of Sweden, Washington D.C., Hawaii, and several trips out West. Over the last 12 years, Linda made her home at The Deerfield. There, she found comfort in friendships, volunteering, and being with her daughter and grandchildren. She will be remembered for the love she shared when you walked into her apartment with a welcoming smile and warm hug.

Linda is preceded in death by her parents, Ray and Lois, husband, Jerry; brother, Mike; sisters-in-law, Charlotte Harms, Mary Cords and Diane Johnson, brothers-in-law Everett Weber, Bill Harms, and Rick Johnston; and nephews Jacob Brandt, and Craig Harms.

She is survived by her daughter, Jackie (Tony) Waalen, and son, Jeremy Cords; grandchildren, Mariah and Seth Waalen, Austin, Macey, Emaline, and Nathan Cords, sisters Mary Johnson, Debra Kay (Kris Weilder); and brother, John (Pam) Johnson, as well as other loving family and friends.

Linda’s family invites you to join them to celebrate her beautiful life on Saturday, January 27, 2024, at Bethany Lutheran Church, 415 Bridge Avenue, Star Prairie, WI 54026, with a visitation from 10-12 p.m. and funeral service at 12:00 p.m. with luncheon to follow.

Interment at Wagon Landing Cemetery will be later in the spring. The family extends a special thanks to The Deerfield caring staff for the many years of laughter, compassion, and kindness to her. Memorials preferred to The Deerfield or Bethany Lutheran Church.

Last Update: Jan 17, 2024 2:40 pm CST